ColumbusvsHallertau Mittelfrüh
Columbus (dual purpose) and Hallertau Mittelfrüh (aroma) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.
Columbus
Alpha acid
14–18%
Beta acid
4.5–6%
Total oil
2.5–4.5 mL
United States
Hallertau Mittelfrüh
Alpha acid
3–5.5%
Beta acid
3–5%
Total oil
0.7–1.3 mL
Germany
Key differences
When to pick Columbus
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
When to pick Hallertau Mittelfrüh
- Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
SpicyCitrusFloral
Only in Columbus
EarthyBlack currantLicoriceCurryPungentDankCannabis
Only in Hallertau Mittelfrüh
GrassyTea
Property
| Property | Columbus | Hallertau Mittelfrüh |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 14–18% | 3–5.5% |
| Beta acid | 4.5–6% | 3–5% |
| Co-humulone | 28–35% | 18–28% |
| Total oil | 2.5–4.5 mL | 0.7–1.3 mL |
| Myrcene | 45–55% | 15–16% |
| Humulene | 9–14% | 55–56% |
| Caryophyllene | 6–10% | 14–15% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | United States | Germany |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Aroma |